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two_kids_mum · May 7, 2009, 04:01 PM

Hi can anyone tell me if any changes can be made to the Joint Parenting Agreement, and the Marital Settlement documents once they have been signed and you are just waiting for prove-up?

I ask this because my ex is acting weird and I fear that he will try to change what we agreed upon.

There isn't a whole lot he can do right?

stevetcg · May 7, 2009, 05:02 PM

Not without you agreeing again, no

two_kids_mum · May 7, 2009, 05:29 PM

Can you think of any circumstances off hand that would change that? He gets the kids for the first time since the split and I worry that he won't return them, even though I have primary physical custody.

stevetcg · May 7, 2009, 05:30 PM

If he doesn't return them, he gets arrested, spends some time in jail and loses visitation... so don't worry too much about that.

two_kids_mum · May 7, 2009, 05:33 PM

Awesome, thanks, I do have an e-mail into my lawyer as well, but the nerves are getting to me a bit.

I appreciate your reassurance, and it is awesome you are a good Dad!

ScottGem · May 7, 2009, 05:39 PM

If changes are made to a signed copy, they have to be initialed by both parties.

If the agreement awards you primary custody and he doesn't return the kids a warrant is sworn out for his arrest.

two_kids_mum · May 7, 2009, 08:00 PM

So the way you all understand it is that the prove-up is just a formality and the papers are where it is all at, otherwise why sign the papers right?

ScottGem · May 8, 2009, 05:29 AM

Originally Posted by two_kids_mum

So the way you all understand it is that the prove-up is just a formality and the papers are where it is all at, otherwise why sign the papers right?

Actually, what happens is that the parties agree outside of court, sign the papers, then the judge approves the settlement. However, its possible, though rare that the judge will not approve the settlement and send it back to the attorneies for some reason.

two_kids_mum · May 8, 2009, 05:34 AM

So it comes to my original question, those papers are pretty much it right? No going back!

ScottGem · May 8, 2009, 05:39 AM

Not quite. Either party can recant their signature and ask for a postponement. But the papaers cannot be submitted to the judge with any changes unless they are initialed by both parties.